Funding for the construction of the new Royal Alberta Museum in Edmonton has now been secured after the Government of Canada agreed to contribute towards the project.

The federal government committed CA$122.5m (£75.9m, EUR88.6m, US$119.8m) towards the project, with the majority to come through the Building Canada Fund (BCF).

A new museum to be located in downtown Edmonton is at the heart of the scheme, which will provide double the exhibition space on offer at the existing attraction.

Multi-purpose spaces including a theatre, a café and outdoor terraces are planned as part of the scheme, which is designed to enhance the visitor experience and increase accessibility.

Ledcor Design-Build (Alberta), which comprises Ledcor Construction, DIALOG Design and Lundholm Associates Architects, has already been appointed by the Government of Alberta to work on the development.

Jeff Johnson, Alberta's minister of infrastructure, said: "Many people at all levels of government have worked hard to try and bring these negotiations to a successful conclusion.

"We appreciate the federal government's commitment to develop solutions to helping us fund this cultural jewel for all Canadians in the heart of downtown Edmonton."